Twice the effort

[Dal]

Hi All

Is it the norm for Aussie finches to build multiple nests. Over the last couple of weeks my BFPF built two seperate nests right near each other, but they are now frequenting the first one built. No signs of incubating yet, but lots of "shenanigans" going on.

Also, my Painted cock slaved away last week carrying all sorts of bits and pieces up to his chosen site. Now it appears that he is building a second nest in a different part of the aviary. After discovering this yesterday I put a heap more sticks, bark, charcoal and pieces of termite nest in. He spent most of the day transporting it up to the new site. I caught the pair "doing the deed" thismorning, so finger crossed.

So, is it normal for them to build multiple nests before laying?

Thanks, Dal

[Finch_Breeder]

Its normal, some hens don't like a nesting site so the male builds a new one, if not some males build nests for the joy of it

[finches247]

Agree what Mike said male makes multiple nests usually for the hen to see if she accepts what nests he has made that she likes.Good Luck.

[jusdeb]

My pied Zebs have made a few nests in some strange places , seems multiple nests is a common thing .

[Dal]

Thanks for the replies guys.

My pied Zebs have made a few nests in some strange places , seems multiple nests is a common thing .

That's funny Deb. My Zeb hens were so impatient, they had eggs in their nests before the boys had even finished building them.

[finchbreeder]

Zebs can be very variable. Take 3 pair and put in an avairy. 1 hen straight into an existing nest, 2 hen hubby builds then she goes in and lays (chicks now), 3 hen can't see that she has even accepted him. Cocks and hens came from different places, but had been in comunal holding avairy for a couple of months.
LML

[Dal]

Thought I would give a quick update. BFPF have been incubating for over a week in the first nest built. Painteds ended up building a third nest. This one looks the goods. Maybe the other two were just practice runs. Over the last couple of days it appears they could be incubating (have been at work so haven't spent a lot of time observing). After only being "back in the game" for only a couple of months, I couldn't be happier I've already bought some bit & pieces to start on the second bank of aviaries (much to the disgust of the minister!!!)